Breast augmentation procedure aims to add volume to the breast, increasing their size and improving their shape and appearance. It is a very common and popular procedure both in the United Kingdom and globally. The procedure itself involves the use of implants placed behind the breast tissue to add the desired volume to the breast.
There are many key considerations for a breast augmentation procedure, and we will comprehensively go through the different types, and location implants can be placed and come to a shared agreement as to which implants to use. This does not happen in one consultation, however. The first consultation will last approximately 30 minutes, whereby we will go through your medical and breast history, your cosmetic desires, and a thorough examination. I will then explain to you the procedure and provide you with further information to read through. A second follow up consultation will be arranged (no fee is charged for this appointment) whereby we can determine the appropriate strategy, the consent process and book a date in for surgery. Sometimes additional clinic appointments are required, and it’s important that both parties are comfortable with the final plan prior to your procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of implants that can be used?
Implants come in a variety of shapes, sizes, projections and compositions.
- Shape – implants are typically either round, or anatomical (tear-drop shaped). Round implants are most used for augmentation as they provide volume throughout the breast, including the upper-inner cleavage area giving the desired augmented appearance. Anatomical implants have more volume in the lower half, replicating a more natural appearance to the breast.
- Size – Implants come in a variety of sizes (volumes) depending on the desired final size. Mr Kenny will carefully assess the current volume, and capacity of your breast and will explain to you which implant ranges are appropriate. Sometimes there is not enough capacity within the skin of the breast to fit a certain implant and in these cases a staged approach is often required.
- Projection – this refers to how far the breasts mound sits away for the chest wall. Implants come in low, medium and high projections depending on the desired final appearance.
- Composition – Implants are made of a silicone outer shell and can be filled with either silicone gel of varying firmness, or sterile saline solution. Most implants used for augmentation utilise silicone gel as this is lighter than saline and gives a softness that replicates typical breast tissue. In addition, implants can have a smooth or a microtextured outer shell each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
Mr Kenny will discuss all these important considerations with you in clinic and a shared decision will be made prior to surgery as to how best to proceed.
Where in the body can implants be placed?
Breast implants can either be placed below the breast tissue but above the pectoralis muscle, termed sub glandular placement, or below the pectoralis muscle termed submuscular. A hybrid of the two is also possible called a ‘Dual plane’ technique whereby the upper portion of the implant is below the muscle and the lower half is below the breast tissue. Each location for the breast implant has their own advantages and disadvantages which Mr Kenny will discuss in detail. The most common approaches are either sub glandular or dual-plane, and the existing size and volume as well as your lifestyle plays a key role in determining where to optimally site the implant.
How is the procedure performed?
Breast augmentation is carried out under a general anaesthetic and takes approximately 1-2 hours to perform. Your wounds will be closed with dissolvable sutures, and your breasts will have post-operative tape applied to help maintain the correct shape whilst the healing process occurs. The procedure may or may not involve the use of a post operative drain which will be removed at the earliest opportunity. Typically, a one-night hospital stay follows however if desired and suitable it may be able to be performed as a day-surgery procedure. You will be placed in a post-operative supportive bra to be worn day and night for 8-12 weeks after surgery, again helping to maintain the appropriate position of the implant on the chest wall as the tissues heal.
What is the typical post operative recovery following breast augmentation?
Rest post-operatively is essential as your body is healing, and it is important not to do too much physical exertion for the first couple of weeks post-operatively as this may lead to the development of post-operative fluid called seroma. Lower limb exercise such as on the treadmill can take place 2 weeks after surgery, but no upper-limb or class-based exercise for 6-8 weeks post op. You may return to work after 1-2 weeks, but this depends on the nature of your work and Mr Kenny will advise accordingly. Sexual activity can take place after surgery taking care and attention of the breasts as they heal over the following 6 weeks. Please refrain from driving for 2 weeks after surgery and check with your insurer for any specific advice.
Do I need any imaging prior to surgery?
If over 40, an up-to-date mammogram within the last 12 months is advised to screen the underlying breast tissue for any issues that need resolving prior to embarking on breast augmentation surgery.
How much does breast augmentation cost?
The total price for the procedure includes the surgical fee, anaesthetic fee and hospital fee and start from £7,200 for bilateral breast augmentation. Please contact Mr Kenny and the team for further information and to get booked in for an initial consultation.